Schmallenberg virus: arrival in Scotland confirmed

The cases are the first to be confirmed in cattle bred and raised in Scotland

The first evidence of cases of the Schmallenberg virus (SBV) among livestock bred and raised in Scotland has been confirmed.

Eight cows on the Barony Campus of Scotland's Rural College in Dumfries and Galloway have tested positive for SBV antibodies.

It indicates exposure to the virus at some time last year.

No deformed calves have yet been born to the 160-strong herd on the farm north of Dumfries.

Last year a ram from Shropshire was confirmed with the virus after being transported to Orkney.

The animals involved in the latest incident were homebred and no animals had been added to the herd from outside Scotland.

The virus - which can cause abortions and birth defects in animals - was first detected in southern England in January 2012.

Although a small number of animals that had recently moved into Scotland have previously tested positive for SBV antibodies, this is the first evidence that suggests exposure to infected midges in Scotland.

While the results were unexpected they will now help us plan our breeding programme and consider vaccination when it becomes available later this yearColin Mason, SAC Consulting

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Since Schmallenberg was first detected in the south of England we have watched it spread slowly northwards.

"Confirmation of its arrival in Scotland is, therefore, no surprise but is nonetheless disappointing and undoubtedly a headache which farmers could do without at the moment.

"Following that confirmation, farmers should continue to exercise vigilance, particularly when moving animals onto their farm and should consider testing breeding stock for the SBV antibody."

He said current evidence suggested infection with SBV had a "relatively low impact" but it was known it could cause problems in pregnant animals.